LettError Type and Typography: Using LayerPlayer with LTR Federal

LTR LayerPlayer is a small application for MacOS 9 (Classic) that helps assemble the layers for LTR Federal. Lines of engraved Federal type consist of up to six layers, each set in a different font and color. It's possible to assemble these layers by hand (manual) of course, but for the busy typographer this program can be a lifesaver.

A screenshot of LayerPlayer.

LayerPlayer offers a choice between the four optical masters (Six, Nine, Twelve and Eighteen Lines), all permutations of layering and shading - including 'cross hatch' effects, and a selection of color schemes. The program exports to EPS or AICB clipboard (Adobe Illustrator/PhotoShop compatible clipboard format)

Illustrator's custom color palette.

Color

LayerPlayer can export the colors as 'Custom Colors' so that they can be edited afterwards. The color name consists of the first few letters of the word set in Federal, and the name of the layer. So you can easily identify and edit the color in the list without having to take the layers apart.